December 2011 Control Engineering archive
Winning with engineering
National Instruments' cofounder James Truchard talks about working with engineers, how to form a successful technology company, Steve Jobs and Apple, and how to do for the embedded computing space... » more
AC drives expand diagnostics, voltage range, DC bus option to save energy
Rockwell Automation extends power range of its Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 755 AC Drives. New high-power drives provide users with expanded application flexibility, additional voltages and common DC bus... » more
Wi-fi wireless sensor system
The W-series wireless transmitters are designed to measure analog voltage and current, temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. » more
Digital pressure switch, transmitters for non-flammable, non-corrosive gas applications
ProSense switch and transmitters are fitted with a two-meter cable, color LCD display, and are designed for non-flammable and non-corrosive gas applications. » more
November 2011 Control Engineering archive
IO module replacements: Check documentation, controller programming, grounding
I/O wiring can be among the most challenging (and perhaps feared) of upgrades. When replacing input/output connections, what are key considerations? Kurt Wadowick, I/O systems product specialist,... » more
Codes and regulations: Electrical Controls’ Dirty Little Secret: We Don’t Follow NFPA Rules
Of course safety is important, but most don’t follow NFPA 70e safety rules for working on an energized electrical panel. Risky? Yes. Unsafe? No, according to this system integrator. Perhaps... » more
Gigabit-only switch routes large amounts of data
GarrettCom's Magnum 12KX is designed to route large amounts of data in applications using complex networking techniques, such as VLANs ro multicast routing. It can connect to copper and fiber. » more
Engineering and IT Insight: MES vs. ERP for manufacturing
Can’t we just use our enterprise resource planning (ERP) system instead of buying a manufacturing execution system (MES) system? The answer isn’t as obvious as the question. » more
October 2011 Control Engineering archive
Leader Under 40: Jamie Schmidt
Lead Project Engineer, Interstates Control Systems Inc. – BS Electrical Engineering, South Dakota State University » more
Leader Under 40: Jason Stoddard
Lead Controls Engineer, Michigan Custom Machines Inc. – AS Electrical Engineering, Mott Community College » more
Think Again: Lead with interest, determination, faith
Educate our youth, be productive, invest in tools and training, show interest in those on your team, and engage in the political process, voting out those who do not compromise, advised General Colin... » more
Energy efficiency: Open, modular control system cuts waste, adds throughput
Meat processor gains line flexibility with new controls, reduces scrap 10%, increases throughput 15%, and cuts troubleshooting time by 20% with anticipated 12-month return on investment. » more
FDI Cooperation, LLC: A new company to support the FDI technology is founded
FDT Group, Fieldbus Foundation, HART Communication Foundation, Profibus & Profinet International, and OPC Foundation launch a company to manage ongoing development work on FDI, the common solution... » more
September 2011 Control Engineering archive
6 mm universal signal conditioner has auto-reset fuse
Wago Corporation's 6 mm universal signal conditioner offers signal precision, an auto-reset fuse, and signal clipping, the company said. » more
Safety relays for machine safety applications
Idec HR1S safety relays are designed for machine safety applications and have instantaneous and time delay safety outputs, company said. » more
Sensor selection: Consider more than capital costs
Spending a little more time, effort, and money in sensor selection can pay off significantly in the lifecycle costs of the sensor or switch, according to Honeywell Sensing and Control. Tips and... » more
Back to Basics: Relearning terms, concepts for process control
Process control terms vary according to engineering discipline and industry. A common vocabulary and better understanding of process control fundamentals make teams and communications more efficient... » more
Engineering and IT Insight: What’s the best manufacturing operations management systems design?
Should your manufacturing operations management (MOM) systems be centralized or distributed? These key considerations can help you decide. MOM includes MES (manufacturing execution systems), LIMS... » more
August 2011 Control Engineering archive
July 2011 Control Engineering archive
Soapbox: Automation profession, reborn
The automation profession, despite its technological excitement and many career opportunities, suffers from a lack of awareness. Here's a cure. See model diagram. » more
Soft start controllers reduce energy costs, increase system life
Eaton DS7 soft start controller is designed to reduce energy costs and increase system life. » more
National Robotics Roundtable applauds President for robotics initiative
President Obama announces investments in robotics to create jobs, improve U.S. competitiveness. » more
Code reader adds resolution, Power over Ethernet, verification
Siemens' MV440 code reading systems has been enhanced with new features like high resolution, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and code marking verification. » more
Light curtains pick to light for error-free shelf control
Wenglor sensoric light curtain uses a pre-mounted reflector foil attached to the back of the sensor´s housing to reduce the efforts for installation and wiring, reduce the initial start-up costs, and... » more
June 2011 Control Engineering archive
CSIA: next-term system integrator leaders, 12% membership gain
Control System Integrators Association announced new leadership at its 2011 annual conference in April and noted a 12% gain in CSIA membership during the past year. Stephen M. Goldberg was elected to... » more
Multi-wire connectors protect against dirt, stress in industrial environments
AutomationDirect's ZIPport product line has been expanded to include heavy duty multi-wire connectors to protect against dirt, moisture and mechanical stress. » more
ODVA industrial network organization announces leaders for 2011-2012
ODVA board of directors includes leaders from automation companies: Bosch Rexroth, Cisco Systems, Rockwell Automation, Omron, Schneider Electric and Weidmüller. ODVA supports DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP,... » more
Engineering and IT Insight: Virtualize manufacturing IT
Virtualization simplifies many manufacturing system problems, such as upgrades, backups, and standby methods. » more
AS-interface gateways provide seamless communication with standard, safety networks
Pepperl+Fuchs' ENX Series AS-Interface Gateways supports Modbus/TCP and Ethernet/IP protocols with advanced features for enhanced network performance and diagnostics retrieval. » more
May 2011 Control Engineering archive
8LV servo motor series expanded for high-performance
B and R Industrial Automation has expanded the 8LV servo motor series to feature more steps per revolution in a smaller package. » more
Protecting power supply outputs with accuracy
PISA 4-channel protection module from PULS Power Supplies allows sensitive and demanding loads to be connected to the same power supply without complications. » more
Stepper drive, controller developed for electric actuators
Specifically designed to be used with electric actuators, Tolomatic’s ACS Stepper Drive/Controller simplifies linear motion by automatically configuring all performance information about the actuator... » more
Michael Babb, long-time Control Engineering editor, dies
Michael P. Babb passed away April 6, 2011, after a short illness. Babb began his editorial career with Control Engineering in 1985. Babb was recognized globally for 26 years of writing and editing... » more
April 2011 Control Engineering archive
9 tips for better industrial SCADA communications
Tips & Tricks: Wireless technologies can improve supervisory control and data acquisition applications. Match technologies to your needs, reduce costs, consider a hybrid approach, and heed six more... » more
Computing Power: Multi-Core Processors Help Industrial Automation
Two or more independent execution cores on one microprocessor chip can match—or exceed—single-core chip performance by running at lower frequencies and using less power. Different software... » more
Growing applications for multi-core processors
Multi-core processors have wide industrial application potential—from vision inspection systems to motion control—as developers increasingly implement the technology, initially in high-end systems.... » more
Modular industrial power controls reduce energy use
Siemens Sirius Innovations line, a new modular power control system, is touted as efficient, flexible, and connected. Sized at 10 hp and 30 hp, they incorporate sustainable elements that make more... » more
March 2011 Control Engineering archive
Integrated user interface for machine tools
Siemens’ Sinumerik Operate integrates HMI-advanced, ShopMill, ShopTurn in one user interface for machine tools. » more
Touch screen vision sensors accommodate rapid product changeover
Banner's iVu Plus stores up to 30 inspections, distinguishes up to 10 patterns with new Sort sensor function. » more
Interlock switch delivers Category 4 safety protection
ISO 13849-1 compliance enables use in a wide range of higher risk level applications; compact size allows OEMs to standardize across machine designs. » more
Integrated Dress pack model added to mid-size robot family
With cables and hoses protected in the upper arm the IRB 2600ID shortens cycle times 15%, with lower operational costs, simplified programming » more
Green Automation: Thomson-RCA energy monitoring cuts energy costs
Assigning accurate costs to compressed air, chill water, and steam generation allowed more efficient use of resources at a Thomson RCA plant and annual savings of $35,000 for compressed air alone.... » more
February 2011 Control Engineering archive
January 2011 Control Engineering archive
Spindle motors for heavy-duty machine tool, motion control applications
Siemens Industry’s 1PH8 family of high-performance induction motor drives and servomotors provide dynamic response, smooth operation and low vibration levels » more
Vibrating fork level switch for safety instrumented systems
Rosemount 2130 switch certified for SIL 2 applications, even with low-density products. » more
Non-contact infrared temperature sensor, transmitter
OS137 Series from Omega offers three measuring ranges, many features in a small package. » more
Variable torque drives serve variable torque fan, pump, and blower applications
VLT Automation VT Drive from Danfoss is designed to reduce initial investment and to maximize flexibility for future in-field upgrades. » more
Micro brick PLCs add standard CPU units, 4 I/O combinations
The line of Click micro brick PLCs now includes standard CPU units featuring discrete inputs and outputs, available in four combinations of built-in I/O types. » more
Metso opens new technology center in Helsinki, Finland
Metso, a valve solutions and services provider, advanced its capabilities with a new factory that increased production by 50%. Metso provides intelligent on-off and emergency shutdown (ESD) valves,... » more
Metso, a valve solutions and services provider, advanced its capabilities with a new factory that increased production by 50%. Metso provides intelligent on-off and emergency shutdown (ESD) valves,... » more
Winning with engineeringNational Instruments' cofounder James Truchard talks about working with engineers, how to form a successful technology company, Steve Jobs and Apple, and how to do for the embedded computing space... » more
AC drives expand diagnostics, voltage range, DC bus option to save energyRockwell Automation extends power range of its Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 755 AC Drives. New high-power drives provide users with expanded application flexibility, additional voltages and common DC bus... » more
Wi-fi wireless sensor systemThe W-series wireless transmitters are designed to measure analog voltage and current, temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. » more
Digital pressure switch, transmitters for non-flammable, non-corrosive gas applicationsProSense switch and transmitters are fitted with a two-meter cable, color LCD display, and are designed for non-flammable and non-corrosive gas applications. » more
26 of 35
IO module replacements: Check documentation, controller programming, groundingI/O wiring can be among the most challenging (and perhaps feared) of upgrades. When replacing input/output connections, what are key considerations? Kurt Wadowick, I/O systems product specialist,... » more
Codes and regulations: Electrical Controls’ Dirty Little Secret: We Don’t Follow NFPA Rules Of course safety is important, but most don’t follow NFPA 70e safety rules for working on an energized electrical panel. Risky? Yes. Unsafe? No, according to this system integrator. Perhaps... » more
Gigabit-only switch routes large amounts of dataGarrettCom's Magnum 12KX is designed to route large amounts of data in applications using complex networking techniques, such as VLANs ro multicast routing. It can connect to copper and fiber. » more
Engineering and IT Insight: MES vs. ERP for manufacturing Can’t we just use our enterprise resource planning (ERP) system instead of buying a manufacturing execution system (MES) system? The answer isn’t as obvious as the question. » more
26 of 34
Leader Under 40: Jamie SchmidtLead Project Engineer, Interstates Control Systems Inc. – BS Electrical Engineering, South Dakota State University » more
Leader Under 40: Jason StoddardLead Controls Engineer, Michigan Custom Machines Inc. – AS Electrical Engineering, Mott Community College » more
Think Again: Lead with interest, determination, faithEducate our youth, be productive, invest in tools and training, show interest in those on your team, and engage in the political process, voting out those who do not compromise, advised General Colin... » more
Energy efficiency: Open, modular control system cuts waste, adds throughput Meat processor gains line flexibility with new controls, reduces scrap 10%, increases throughput 15%, and cuts troubleshooting time by 20% with anticipated 12-month return on investment. » more
FDI Cooperation, LLC: A new company to support the FDI technology is foundedFDT Group, Fieldbus Foundation, HART Communication Foundation, Profibus & Profinet International, and OPC Foundation launch a company to manage ongoing development work on FDI, the common solution... » more
26 of 52
6 mm universal signal conditioner has auto-reset fuseWago Corporation's 6 mm universal signal conditioner offers signal precision, an auto-reset fuse, and signal clipping, the company said. » more
Safety relays for machine safety applicationsIdec HR1S safety relays are designed for machine safety applications and have instantaneous and time delay safety outputs, company said. » more
Sensor selection: Consider more than capital costsSpending a little more time, effort, and money in sensor selection can pay off significantly in the lifecycle costs of the sensor or switch, according to Honeywell Sensing and Control. Tips and... » more
Back to Basics: Relearning terms, concepts for process controlProcess control terms vary according to engineering discipline and industry. A common vocabulary and better understanding of process control fundamentals make teams and communications more efficient... » more
Engineering and IT Insight: What’s the best manufacturing operations management systems design?Should your manufacturing operations management (MOM) systems be centralized or distributed? These key considerations can help you decide. MOM includes MES (manufacturing execution systems), LIMS... » more
Soapbox: Automation profession, rebornThe automation profession, despite its technological excitement and many career opportunities, suffers from a lack of awareness. Here's a cure. See model diagram. » more
Soft start controllers reduce energy costs, increase system lifeEaton DS7 soft start controller is designed to reduce energy costs and increase system life. » more
National Robotics Roundtable applauds President for robotics initiative President Obama announces investments in robotics to create jobs, improve U.S. competitiveness. » more
Code reader adds resolution, Power over Ethernet, verificationSiemens' MV440 code reading systems has been enhanced with new features like high resolution, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and code marking verification. » more
Light curtains pick to light for error-free shelf controlWenglor sensoric light curtain uses a pre-mounted reflector foil attached to the back of the sensor´s housing to reduce the efforts for installation and wiring, reduce the initial start-up costs, and... » more
26 of 42
CSIA: next-term system integrator leaders, 12% membership gainControl System Integrators Association announced new leadership at its 2011 annual conference in April and noted a 12% gain in CSIA membership during the past year. Stephen M. Goldberg was elected to... » more
Multi-wire connectors protect against dirt, stress in industrial environmentsAutomationDirect's ZIPport product line has been expanded to include heavy duty multi-wire connectors to protect against dirt, moisture and mechanical stress. » more
ODVA industrial network organization announces leaders for 2011-2012ODVA board of directors includes leaders from automation companies: Bosch Rexroth, Cisco Systems, Rockwell Automation, Omron, Schneider Electric and Weidmüller. ODVA supports DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP,... » more
Engineering and IT Insight: Virtualize manufacturing ITVirtualization simplifies many manufacturing system problems, such as upgrades, backups, and standby methods. » more
AS-interface gateways provide seamless communication with standard, safety networksPepperl+Fuchs' ENX Series AS-Interface Gateways supports Modbus/TCP and Ethernet/IP protocols with advanced features for enhanced network performance and diagnostics retrieval. » more
26 of 37
8LV servo motor series expanded for high-performanceB and R Industrial Automation has expanded the 8LV servo motor series to feature more steps per revolution in a smaller package. » more
Protecting power supply outputs with accuracyPISA 4-channel protection module from PULS Power Supplies allows sensitive and demanding loads to be connected to the same power supply without complications. » more
Stepper drive, controller developed for electric actuatorsSpecifically designed to be used with electric actuators, Tolomatic’s ACS Stepper Drive/Controller simplifies linear motion by automatically configuring all performance information about the actuator... » more
Yes, but…will it run in the dark?
First Michael Babb editorial in Control Engineering, originally published in the November 1987 issue, talked about automation's contribution to efficiency manufacturing. Babb passed away April 6,... » more
First Michael Babb editorial in Control Engineering, originally published in the November 1987 issue, talked about automation's contribution to efficiency manufacturing. Babb passed away April 6,... » more
Michael Babb, long-time Control Engineering editor, diesMichael P. Babb passed away April 6, 2011, after a short illness. Babb began his editorial career with Control Engineering in 1985. Babb was recognized globally for 26 years of writing and editing... » more
26 of 35
9 tips for better industrial SCADA communicationsTips & Tricks: Wireless technologies can improve supervisory control and data acquisition applications. Match technologies to your needs, reduce costs, consider a hybrid approach, and heed six more... » more
Computing Power: Multi-Core Processors Help Industrial AutomationTwo or more independent execution cores on one microprocessor chip can match—or exceed—single-core chip performance by running at lower frequencies and using less power. Different software... » more
Growing applications for multi-core processors Multi-core processors have wide industrial application potential—from vision inspection systems to motion control—as developers increasingly implement the technology, initially in high-end systems.... » more
Modular industrial power controls reduce energy useSiemens Sirius Innovations line, a new modular power control system, is touted as efficient, flexible, and connected. Sized at 10 hp and 30 hp, they incorporate sustainable elements that make more... » more
Integrated user interface for machine toolsSiemens’ Sinumerik Operate integrates HMI-advanced, ShopMill, ShopTurn in one user interface for machine tools. » more
Touch screen vision sensors accommodate rapid product changeover Banner's iVu Plus stores up to 30 inspections, distinguishes up to 10 patterns with new Sort sensor function. » more
Interlock switch delivers Category 4 safety protectionISO 13849-1 compliance enables use in a wide range of higher risk level applications; compact size allows OEMs to standardize across machine designs. » more
Integrated Dress pack model added to mid-size robot familyWith cables and hoses protected in the upper arm the IRB 2600ID shortens cycle times 15%, with lower operational costs, simplified programming » more
Green Automation: Thomson-RCA energy monitoring cuts energy costsAssigning accurate costs to compressed air, chill water, and steam generation allowed more efficient use of resources at a Thomson RCA plant and annual savings of $35,000 for compressed air alone.... » more
26 of 42
Spindle motors for heavy-duty machine tool, motion control applicationsSiemens Industry’s 1PH8 family of high-performance induction motor drives and servomotors provide dynamic response, smooth operation and low vibration levels » more
Vibrating fork level switch for safety instrumented systemsRosemount 2130 switch certified for SIL 2 applications, even with low-density products. » more
Non-contact infrared temperature sensor, transmitter OS137 Series from Omega offers three measuring ranges, many features in a small package. » more
Variable torque drives serve variable torque fan, pump, and blower applicationsVLT Automation VT Drive from Danfoss is designed to reduce initial investment and to maximize flexibility for future in-field upgrades. » more
Micro brick PLCs add standard CPU units, 4 I/O combinationsThe line of Click micro brick PLCs now includes standard CPU units featuring discrete inputs and outputs, available in four combinations of built-in I/O types. » more
Click below to read content from other years
- 2013 Control Engineering magazine archive
- 2012 Control Engineering magazine archive
- 2010 Control Engineering magazine archive